Eilat Joins Expanded Gun Permit Program as Ben-Gvir Broadens Eligibility

The city of Eilat officially joined today (Wednesday) the list of localities eligible for personal firearm permits under the gun reform being led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Under the decision, 180 streets in the city were recognized as qualifying streets, meaning residents who live on them will be able to apply for a private firearm license, subject to meeting the conditions and criteria set by law. That makes Eilat the 100th locality to receive eligibility under the expansion of the reform since the beginning of 2026.

The current move comes after it was reported last August that Eilat was expected to join the list of eligible localities. Approval moved forward following an official request submitted by the Eilat Municipality to the Ministry of National Security. About two and a half weeks ago, a meeting took place between Eilat Mayor Eli Lankri and Minister Ben-Gvir, during which the issue of carrying personal firearms was among the topics discussed. At the end of the meeting, it was agreed to approve the request and complete the recognition process for the city.

With its entry into the reform, Eilat joins a long list of cities, regional councils, and communities across the country that have already been defined as gun-eligible areas. In southern Israel, the list includes, among others, all the communities surrounding Gaza, Ashdod, Ofakim, Sderot, Netivot, Meitar, Hatzerim, Eilot Region, and all the Arava kibbutzim adjacent to the border fence.

Officials at the Ministry of National Security say that since the gun reform was expanded, more than 260,000 citizens have already received private firearm licenses.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir welcomed the move: "Eilat is the 100th locality joining the gun reform this year, and this is a significant milestone in the continuation of the revolution we are leading. After October 7, everyone understands that a weapon in the right hands saves lives. The residents of Eilat, like every law-abiding citizen in the State of Israel, have a basic right to protect themselves, their families, and their surroundings. We will continue to expand the reform and strengthen personal security."